The Top 16 Most Expensive Cars Ever Sold at Auction: Extravagant Pieces

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The world of classic and exotic cars often sees some breathtakingly high prices at auctions. Collectors and enthusiasts are willing to pay top dollar for rarity, history, and sheer automotive excellence. Here’s a look at the top 15 most expensive cars ever sold at auction, from least expensive to most expensive.

Table of Contents

List Of Most Expensive Cars Ever Sold at Auction:

16. 1957 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa – $16.39 Million

Expensive Cars
Expensive Cars

Specs:

  • Engine: 3.0-liter V12
  • Horsepower: 300 hp
  • Top Speed: Approximately 161 mph
  • Transmission: 4-speed manual
  • Weight: 800 kg (1,764 lbs)

The 1957 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa is a legendary race car, celebrated for its distinctive design and exceptional performance. Its 3.0-liter V12 engine produces 300 horsepower, allowing it to reach a top speed of around 161 mph. The Testa Rossa was designed with an emphasis on aerodynamics and lightweight construction, featuring a striking “pontoon” fender design.

This model achieved significant success in endurance racing, including multiple victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. With only 34 units ever produced, the 250 Testa Rossa is incredibly rare. Its combination of innovative design, racing success, and limited production make it one of the most desirable Ferraris in the world. The Testa Rossa’s status as a racing icon and its timeless beauty contribute to its high value at auction.

15. 1963 Ferrari 250 LM – $17.6 Million

Expensive Cars
Expensive Cars

Specs:

  • Engine: 3.3-liter V12
  • Horsepower: 320 hp
  • Top Speed: Approximately 180 mph
  • Transmission: 5-speed manual
  • Weight: 850 kg (1,874 lbs)

The 1963 Ferrari 250 LM is a highly regarded sports car, known for its performance and rarity. Its 3.3-liter V12 engine produces 320 horsepower, enabling it to reach a top speed of around 180 mph. The 250 LM was Ferrari’s first mid-engine car, marking a significant shift in design philosophy. It achieved notable success in endurance racing, including a victory at the 1965 24 Hours of Le Mans.

Only 32 units were ever built, adding to its exclusivity. The 250 LM’s innovative design, impressive performance, and racing heritage make it a highly sought-after collector’s item. Its combination of rarity, historical significance, and Ferrari’s reputation for excellence contribute to its high value at auction.

14. 1954 Ferrari 375-Plus Spider Competizione – $18.3 Million

Expensive Cars
Expensive Cars

Specs:

  • Engine: 4.9-liter V12
  • Horsepower: 330 hp
  • Top Speed: Approximately 186 mph
  • Transmission: 4-speed manual
  • Weight: 1,000 kg (2,205 lbs)

The 1954 Ferrari 375-Plus Spider Competizione is a remarkable piece of automotive history. Its powerful 4.9-liter V12 engine, capable of producing 330 horsepower, made it a formidable competitor on the race track. The car’s top speed of around 186 mph was impressive for its time. This specific model participated in several major races, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the Mille Miglia, where it proved its mettle.

The 375-Plus was designed by Pinin Farina and featured an aluminum body, making it not only powerful but also lightweight at just 1,000 kg. Its rarity, with only a handful ever produced, combined with its historical significance and striking design, make it a coveted collector’s item. The car’s impressive racing pedigree and the legacy of the Ferrari brand add to its allure, making it one of the most desirable classic cars ever sold at auction.

13. 1961 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spider – $18.5 Million

Specs:

  • Engine: 3.0-liter V12
  • Horsepower: 280 hp
  • Top Speed: Approximately 145 mph
  • Transmission: 4-speed manual
  • Weight: 1,065 kg (2,347 lbs)

The 1961 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spider is an epitome of elegance and performance. This stunning vehicle is powered by a 3.0-liter V12 engine, producing 280 horsepower. It can reach a top speed of around 145 mph, which was quite remarkable in the early 1960s. The “SWB” in its name stands for Short Wheelbase, which enhanced its handling and agility.

Designed by Pininfarina and built by Scaglietti, the 250 GT SWB California Spider is celebrated for its exquisite design and sporty demeanor. This model’s rarity and desirability were further heightened by its appearance in the 1986 film “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off.” With only 56 units ever made, this car’s scarcity and its blend of beauty, performance, and cultural significance make it one of the most sought-after Ferraris in the world.

12. 1939 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B Lungo Spider – $19.8 Million

Specs:

  • Engine: 2.9-liter straight-8
  • Horsepower: 180 hp
  • Top Speed: Approximately 110 mph
  • Transmission: 4-speed manual
  • Weight: 1,250 kg (2,756 lbs)

The 1939 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B Lungo Spider is often hailed as one of the most beautiful and technically advanced pre-war cars. It features a 2.9-liter straight-8 engine that produces 180 horsepower, allowing it to reach a top speed of around 110 mph. The “Lungo” (long) version has a longer wheelbase, which provides a more comfortable ride.

This model is renowned for its stunning coachwork by Carrozzeria Touring, characterized by its elegant, flowing lines. Only a handful of these cars were built, adding to their rarity and desirability. The 8C 2900B Lungo Spider’s combination of exceptional engineering, breathtaking design, and historical significance makes it one of the most coveted collector cars in the world. Its auction price reflects the high esteem in which it is held by enthusiasts and collectors alike.

11. 1955 Jaguar D-Type – $21.78 Million

Specs:

  • Engine: 3.4-liter straight-6
  • Horsepower: 250 hp
  • Top Speed: Approximately 172 mph
  • Transmission: 4-speed manual
  • Weight: 910 kg (2,006 lbs)

The 1955 Jaguar D-Type is a marvel of engineering and design, renowned for its distinctive aerodynamic shape and impressive performance. Powered by a 3.4-liter straight-6 engine producing 250 horsepower, it could achieve a top speed of approximately 172 mph. This car was designed to dominate at Le Mans, and it did just that, securing victories in 1955, 1956, and 1957.

The D-Type’s innovative construction, including its monocoque chassis and disc brakes, set new standards in the automotive world. With its racing pedigree and limited production numbers, it has become one of the most iconic and valuable Jaguars ever built. The D-Type’s combination of cutting-edge technology, racing success, and stunning design has made it a highly prized collectible.

10. 1935 Duesenberg SSJ – $22 Million

Specs:

  • Engine: 6.9-liter inline-8 with supercharger
  • Horsepower: 400 hp
  • Top Speed: Approximately 140 mph
  • Transmission: 3-speed manual
  • Weight: 1,680 kg (3,704 lbs)

The 1935 Duesenberg SSJ is a legendary American classic, epitomizing the height of pre-war automotive engineering and luxury. With a 6.9-liter supercharged inline-8 engine producing 400 horsepower, the SSJ was one of the most powerful cars of its era. It could achieve a top speed of approximately 140 mph, an extraordinary feat for the 1930s. Only two SSJ models were ever built, both of which were owned by Hollywood legends: Gary Cooper and Clark Gable.

The SSJ’s design is a testament to the opulence and extravagance of the Duesenberg marque. It features elegant, sweeping lines and a short wheelbase, contributing to its distinctive and sporty appearance. The interior is equally luxurious, with high-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship. The rarity of the Duesenberg SSJ, combined with its historical significance and connection to Hollywood royalty, makes it a highly coveted collector’s item. Its status as a pinnacle of American automotive history and its remarkable performance capabilities contribute to its high value at auction. The sale of the 1935 Duesenberg SSJ for $22 million underscores its enduring appeal and the passion it inspires among collectors and enthusiasts.

9. 1956 Aston Martin DBR1 – $22.5 Million

Specs:

  • Engine: 2.5-liter straight-6
  • Horsepower: 250 hp
  • Top Speed: Approximately 153 mph
  • Transmission: 5-speed manual
  • Weight: 800 kg (1,764 lbs)

The 1956 Aston Martin DBR1 is a legendary race car, often considered one of the most important in British motorsport history. Its 2.5-liter straight-6 engine delivers 250 horsepower, allowing it to reach a top speed of around 153 mph. The DBR1’s lightweight construction, at just 800 kg, contributed to its impressive performance on the track.

This particular model is renowned for its victories at the 1959 24 Hours of Le Mans and the Nürburgring 1000 km. Only five DBR1s were ever built, making it incredibly rare. Its sleek design, combined with its racing success and the prestige of the Aston Martin brand, make it an invaluable collector’s item. The DBR1’s significance in automotive history and its limited production run are key factors that contribute to its high value at auctions.

8. 1964 Ferrari 275 GTB/C Speciale – $26.4 Million

Specs:

  • Engine: 3.3-liter V12
  • Horsepower: 320 hp
  • Top Speed: Approximately 170 mph
  • Transmission: 5-speed manual
  • Weight: 770 kg (1,698 lbs)

The 1964 Ferrari 275 GTB/C Speciale is an extraordinary example of Ferrari’s engineering prowess and racing heritage. This model is one of just three built specifically for competition, hence the “C” in its name, which stands for “Competizione.” It features a 3.3-liter V12 engine that produces 320 horsepower, enabling it to reach a top speed of around 170 mph. This lightweight car, weighing only 770 kg, was designed for endurance racing and boasts a sophisticated chassis and suspension setup.

The 275 GTB/C Speciale is distinguished by its unique bodywork and advanced mechanical specifications, which set it apart from the standard 275 GTB models. Its rarity and historical significance, combined with its impressive performance capabilities, make it a highly desirable collector’s item. The car’s racing pedigree includes participation in notable events like the 24 Hours of Le Mans, further enhancing its allure. The blend of rarity, engineering excellence, and competition history has cemented the 275 GTB/C Speciale’s status as one of the most valuable Ferraris ever sold at auction.

7. 1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4*S N.A.R.T. Spider – $27.5 Million

Specs:

  • Engine: 3.3-liter V12
  • Horsepower: 300 hp
  • Top Speed: Approximately 160 mph
  • Transmission: 5-speed manual
  • Weight: 1,150 kg (2,535 lbs)

The 1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4*S N.A.R.T. Spider is one of the rarest and most desirable Ferraris ever made. Its 3.3-liter V12 engine produces 300 horsepower, enabling it to reach a top speed of around 160 mph. The N.A.R.T. (North American Racing Team) Spider was a special edition commissioned by Ferrari’s American importer, Luigi Chinetti.

Only 10 of these cars were ever built, making them extraordinarily rare. Designed by Pininfarina and built by Scaglietti, the N.A.R.T. Spider is celebrated for its stunning looks and open-top driving experience. This model gained additional fame from its appearance in the 1968 film “The Thomas Crown Affair.” Its combination of rarity, performance, and cinematic appeal make it one of the most sought-after Ferraris in existence.

6. 1956 Ferrari 290 MM – $28.05 Million

Specs:

  • Engine: 3.5-liter V12
  • Horsepower: 320 hp
  • Top Speed: Approximately 170 mph
  • Transmission: 4-speed manual
  • Weight: 900 kg (1,984 lbs)

The 1956 Ferrari 290 MM is a rare and historically significant racing car, built for the Mille Miglia. Its 3.5-liter V12 engine produces 320 horsepower, allowing it to reach a top speed of around 170 mph. The 290 MM was specifically designed for endurance racing, featuring a robust and lightweight construction.

This particular model was driven by some of the greatest drivers of the era, including Juan Manuel Fangio and Phil Hill. Only four of these cars were ever made, making them incredibly rare. The 290 MM’s impressive racing pedigree, combined with its limited production and historical significance, make it one of the most coveted Ferraris among collectors. Its high auction price reflects its status as a true automotive icon and a testament to Ferrari’s racing heritage.

5. 1954 Mercedes-Benz W196 – $29.6 Million

Specs:

  • Engine: 2.5-liter straight-8
  • Horsepower: 290 hp
  • Top Speed: Approximately 186 mph
  • Transmission: 5-speed manual
  • Weight: 800 kg (1,764 lbs)

The 1954 Mercedes-Benz W196 is a legendary Formula One car, known for its groundbreaking engineering and dominant performance on the track. Powered by a 2.5-liter straight-8 engine producing 290 horsepower, it could reach a top speed of around 186 mph. The W196 featured advanced technologies for its time, including fuel injection and a desmodromic valve system.

Driven by iconic racers like Juan Manuel Fangio and Stirling Moss, this car secured numerous victories, including two World Championships. Its rarity, historical significance, and the prestige of the Mercedes-Benz brand make it one of the most valuable cars ever sold at auction. The W196’s cutting-edge design and its success in the pinnacle of motorsport contribute to its high value and desirability among collectors.

4. 1957 Ferrari 335 S – $35.7 Million

Specs:

  • Engine: 4.0-liter V12
  • Horsepower: 390 hp
  • Top Speed: Approximately 186 mph
  • Transmission: 4-speed manual
  • Weight: 880 kg (1,940 lbs)

The 1957 Ferrari 335 S is a legendary sports car, renowned for its incredible performance and racing pedigree. Its 4.0-liter V12 engine produces 390 horsepower, allowing it to reach a top speed of around 186 mph. This car competed in some of the most prestigious races of its time, including the Mille Miglia and the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

The 335 S was designed with an emphasis on speed and aerodynamics, featuring a sleek, lightweight body. Only four of these cars were ever built, making them exceptionally rare. Its combination of cutting-edge engineering, racing success, and limited production run makes it one of the most coveted Ferraris ever. The 335 S’s significant impact on motorsport history and its extraordinary performance capabilities contribute to its high value at auction.

3. 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO – $48.4 Million

Specs:

  • Engine: 3.0-liter V12
  • Horsepower: 300 hp
  • Top Speed: Approximately 174 mph
  • Transmission: 5-speed manual
  • Weight: 880 kg (1,940 lbs)

The 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO is often considered the Holy Grail of classic cars, renowned for its stunning design and exceptional performance. Its 3.0-liter V12 engine produces 300 horsepower, enabling it to reach a top speed of around 174 mph. The 250 GTO was built for racing, with only 36 units ever produced. It dominated the competition, winning numerous championships and races, including the FIA GT World Championship.

2. 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO by Scaglietti – $51.7 Million

Specs:

  • Engine: 3.0-liter V12
  • Horsepower: 300 hp
  • Top Speed: Approximately 174 mph
  • Transmission: 5-speed manual
  • Weight: 880 kg (1,940 lbs)

The 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO is often considered the Holy Grail of classic cars, renowned for its stunning design and exceptional performance. Its 3.0-liter V12 engine produces 300 horsepower, enabling it to reach a top speed of around 174 mph. The 250 GTO was built for racing, with only 36 units ever produced. It dominated the competition, winning numerous championships and races, including the FIA GT World Championship.

Designed by Giotto Bizzarrini and Sergio Scaglietti, the 250 GTO is celebrated for its perfect blend of form and function. Its rarity, racing pedigree, and timeless beauty make it one of the most desirable and valuable cars in the world. The 250 GTO’s legendary status in the automotive world and its unmatched combination of aesthetics and performance contribute to its staggering auction price.

1. Mercedes 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe – $143 Million

Specs:

  • Engine: 3.0-liter straight-8
  • Horsepower: 302 hp
  • Top Speed: Approximately 180 mph
  • Transmission: 5-speed manual
  • Weight: 998 kg (2,200 lbs)

The Mercedes 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe is not only one of the most expensive cars ever sold but also one of the rarest and most historically significant. Named after its creator, Rudolf Uhlenhaut, this car was a road-going version of the legendary 300 SLR racing car that dominated the mid-1950s racing scene. Its 3.0-liter straight-8 engine produces 302 horsepower, allowing it to reach a top speed of around 180 mph, making it one of the fastest cars of its era.

The 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe is renowned for its advanced engineering, including a lightweight aluminum body and innovative features such as desmodromic valves and direct fuel injection, technologies borrowed from Mercedes’ racing efforts. Only two units were ever produced, and they were used primarily as personal transport by Uhlenhaut himself. The car’s rarity, combined with its groundbreaking design and connection to one of the most successful racing programs in history, make it an invaluable piece of automotive history. Its staggering auction price reflects its unparalleled significance and desirability among collectors.

End Note

These magnificent cars represent the pinnacle of automotive engineering and design. Their high auction prices reflect not only their rarity and historical significance but also the passion and dedication of the collectors who treasure them. Each of these vehicles has a unique story and a special place in the history of the automobile, making them timeless icons in the world of classic and exotic cars.

FAQ: Top 15 Most Expensive Cars Ever Sold at Auction

1. What are the most expensive cars ever sold at auction?

The top most expensive cars ever sold at auction are:

  1. 1957 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa – $16.39 Million
  2. 1963 Ferrari 250 LM – $17.6 Million
  3. 1954 Ferrari 375-Plus Spider Competizione – $18.3 Million
  4. 1961 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spider – $18.5 Million
  5. 1939 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B Lungo Spider – $19.8 Million
  6. 1955 Jaguar D-Type – $21.78 Million
  7. 1935 Duesenberg SSJ – $22 Million
  8. 1956 Aston Martin DBR1 – $22.5 Million
  9. 1964 Ferrari 275 GTB/C Speciale – $26.4 Million
  10. 1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4*S N.A.R.T. Spider – $27.5 Million
  11. 1956 Ferrari 290 MM – $28.05 Million
  12. 1954 Mercedes-Benz W196 – $29.6 Million
  13. 1957 Ferrari 335 S – $35.7 Million
  14. 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO – $48.4 Million
  15. 1963 Ferrari 250 GTO By Scaglietti – $51.7 Million
  16. Mercedes 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe – $143 Million

2. Why are these cars so expensive?

These cars are extremely valuable due to their rarity, historical significance, unique design, and exceptional engineering. Many of them have prestigious racing pedigrees and were produced in very limited quantities, making them highly sought after by collectors.

3. What makes the 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO so special?

The 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO is renowned for its stunning design, exceptional performance, and racing success. Only 36 units were produced, and it dominated the competition in the 1960s. Its rarity, racing pedigree, and timeless beauty make it one of the most desirable and valuable cars in the world.

4. How many units of the Mercedes 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe were produced?

Only two units of the Mercedes 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe were produced, making it one of the rarest cars in the world. It was a road-going version of the legendary 300 SLR racing car and named after its creator, Rudolf Uhlenhaut.

5. What are the specifications of the 1957 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa?

  • Engine: 3.0-liter V12
  • Horsepower: 300 hp
  • Top Speed: Approximately 161 mph
  • Transmission: 4-speed manual
  • Weight: 800 kg (1,764 lbs)

6. Why is the 1955 Jaguar D-Type so valuable?

The 1955 Jaguar D-Type is valuable due to its distinctive aerodynamic design, impressive performance, and racing success. It secured victories at Le Mans in 1955, 1956, and 1957. Its limited production numbers and innovative construction make it highly prized among collectors.

7. What was the most recent high-priced auction sale among these cars?

The most recent high-priced auction sale among these cars was the Mercedes 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe, which sold for $143 million, making it the most expensive car ever sold at auction.

8. Are there any non-Ferrari cars on the list?

Yes, there are several non-Ferrari cars on the list, including the Mercedes 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe, Jaguar D-Type, Aston Martin DBR1, Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B Lungo Spider, and the Mercedes-Benz W196.

9. What factors contribute to the high auction prices of these cars?

The high auction prices of these cars are influenced by their rarity, historical significance, unique design, exceptional engineering, and prestigious racing pedigrees. The passion and dedication of collectors also play a significant role in driving up prices.

10. Where can I find more information about these cars?

You can find more information about these cars through automotive history books, classic car magazines, auction house websites, and online resources dedicated to classic and exotic cars. Additionally, attending classic car shows and auctions can provide firsthand knowledge and insights.

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